The more things change for the Broncos, the more they remain the same. At least on draft day.

The Broncos throughout the Mike Shanahan era have been looking for a dominant defensive lineman on draft day. They found one in Trevor Pryce, but for the most part haven’t been able to get their man on draft day. Hence their signing of all those ex-Browns to shore up the D-line.

They pick 21st in this year’s draft, well after several defensive linemen are projected to be taken. Maybe that’s why they’re trying to get the eighth pick from the Texans.

The Post’s Bill Williamson reports that the Bronx have talked to the Houston front office about a deal that would send Tatum Bell, Jake Plummer and other considerations to the Texans for pick No. 8. In that scenario, the Broncos would be expected to select one of the top D-linemen on the board.

So can it happen? Granted, it may be a long shot. Then again, ex-Broncos offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak is running the show with the Texans. And he’s very interested in unloading incumbent QB David Carr and acquiring Plummer.

Another possibility: The Broncos, if they were to get the eighth pick, would go for Oklahoma tailback Adrian Peterson if he were available. At any rate, the coaching staff is none enamored of Bell and his many fumbles.